37. Taxes???

I am unaware of even a single grower who started out in the business because he or she was unwilling to pay taxes. The reason they did not was because it was not prudent to pay those taxes when operating illegal. Can you imagine the discussion with the IRS, "Um so you want to give us this money for taxes....and exactly what did you do to acquire this money?" Now with prices plummeting they would be hard pressed again to pay those taxes.

On the topic of taxes for the mom and pops, something equitable SHOULD be worked out. The bottom line is to keep the cottage industry in our state vibrant. This way they make money here and spend it here. This is a better solution for the citizens of Washington than letting out of state big agri-business take over.

Think about it, many of those in this cottage industry paid our dues in that they remained underground, fearful that they would be busted or robbed. Most of them made less than a modest living, most rented homes fearful that a bust could take everything they owned. I liken it to being a Jew in NAZI Germany in that you could not trust any but a precious few with your secret. Those who lasted through the decades have little but battle scars to show for their efforts....and now you suggest that their future is to be put out of business by out of state big agri-corps? Oh well, maybe they can get jobs at Wall Mart-that is if Wall Mart isn't too particular about our resumes.

Personally
I think BC should keep its weed in BC and Cali should keep its weed in Cali. I would like to see legislation to support local cottage industry growers here in my state.